Thursday, November 04, 2010

Allure of the Seas

Several days ago Royal Caribbean took delivery of their newest addition, Allure of the Seas. Departing Turku, Finland on October 29th, she has already begun her journey towards her homeport of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. She is expected to arrive on Thursday, November 11th. There was a lot less fanfare to mark the occasion compared to a year ago, when her sister Oasis of the Seas made the same trip. Ah, but isn’t that always the case when a sibling comes along? So how does little sis distinguish herself from her much adored and popular big sister? Not to worry. Allure of the Seas has charms all her own and will undoubtedly capture the hearts of everyone that gets the chance to step onboard!

Entertainment….

Allure of the Seas will be the first Royal Caribbean ship to welcome the DreamWorks Experience. Look for the studio’s beloved characters to show up in parades, shows, movies and meet and greets. The “How to Train Your Dragon Ice Show” and “Madagascar Aqua Show” can only be seen here!

“Chicago: The Musical” will become the second Tony Award-winning musical that Royal Caribbean presents at sea. This hot, high energy musical will be performed several times during the week at the state-of-the-art Amber Theater aboard Allure of the Seas.

Blue Planet is the new aerial acrobatic show. It’s an artsy and dramatic interpretation/story of the preservation of Earth’s oceans that is sure to amaze audiences. The show also features great music including multiple Beatles songs and energetic dance numbers.

Guests will enjoy a new water show in Allure of the Seas’ AquaTheater. Titled “Ocean Aria,” the storyline tells of the discovery of an ancient underwater civilization. It will still feature Olympic type diving but also have some unique features including fountains choreographed to orchestra music.

Another addition will be the showing of 3D movies in the main theater. The movies will be first-run and family friendly.

Food…

The Samba Grill, an authentic churrascaria, will be an exciting new place to eat aboard the Allure. Passadores (meat waiters) come to your table with skewers of speared meats, be it beef, pork, chicken or lamb. Not a meat eater? Try the Atlantic salmon marinated with sea salt and garlic. Yummy!

Rita’s Cantina replaces the Seafood Shack on the Boardwalk. It will be serving fajitas, tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole, fish tacos, Chipotle-style flautas among other Mexican favorites. In addition, it will serve up the best and widest selection of margaritas at sea, offering both authentic and signature concoctions mixed with your choice from the extensive list of quality tequilas, served on the rocks or frozen in a variety of fruit-flavor combinations!

Boardwalk Dog House serving what else…hot dogs! Because what would a boardwalk be without an authentic Coney Island style hot dog? Also wieners, brats, sausages and other delicious linked meats and a variety of toppings. Hold the sauerkraut, please.

Starbucks makes its first appearance on a cruise ship and is a comfortable fit on the Royal Promenade. Lattes, cappuccinos,and frappuccinos are all available at an additional nominal charge.

150 Central Park received such rave reviews on the Oasis, that it returns on the Allure. But look for Molly Brandt, Chef de Cuisine, to add her personal flair! Molly was the winner of the Allure of the SeasCulinary Challenge co-hosted with The Culinary Institute of America, as well as Food and Wine's 2006 best student chef. Once again, fine dining at its very best.

Shopping…

The Guess Store is about sexy, adventurous, trendsetting apparel and accessories. All-American looks with a uniquely European flair. And now you can shop while you’re hundreds of miles out at sea.

Pop artist Romero Britto is represented in galleries and museums across five continents, from Singapore to Dubai, to London and New York….but soon you will be able to find a BRITTO Gallery at sea! Through his vibrant colors, and playful themes Britto's art captures the attention of both youthful spirits and educated art collectors alike.

Allure of the Seas will begin sailing in December, alternating between an Eastern and Western Caribbean itinerary. The Eastern Caribbean cruise will depart from Fort Lauderdale and stop at Nassau in Bahamas, Charlotte Amalie in St Thomas and Philipsburg in St Maarten. The Western Caribbean cruise stops at Labadee in Haiti, Falmouth in Jamaica and Cozumel in Mexico"